Essential Idaho exhibit kicks off a year long celebration

By Alannah Allbrett

The Idaho State Historical Museum celebrates the 150th anniversary of the creation of the Idaho Territory with a special exhibition entitled Essential Idaho. The exhibition features “things that make the Gem State unique” with contributions from every county.

The territory’s sesquicentennial celebration features rare artifacts, hands-on learning stations, and compelling stories about Idaho’s history, geography, and culture. It is one of the largest exhibitions ever shown at the museum.

Lin and Merk Cannell, Orofino, as contributors to the project, were invited to a kick off reception in Boise March 15. Lin had the distinction of being one among hundreds of contributors who was chosen for her nomination of William and Isabel Craig as an important part of Idaho history.

Lin tells of a highway sign on Hwy. 195, near Winchester, about William Craig – an early pioneer, which sparked her curiosity and the subsequent publishing of a book by her entitled: The Intermediary, William Craig among the Nez Perces – published by Ridenbaugh Press.

Lin and Merk, both native Idahoans, enjoyed the reception and exhibit. Lin hopes to go back to “prowl at my leisure” as she says. She commended the curators as having done an excellent job.

One of Craig’s descendents attended the opening of the exhibition – a great, great grandchild, Bill Bellknap. Another great, great, great granddaughter, Gloria Manning of Puyallup, WA, contacted Lin while she was writing the book. Lin said she helped for many years with the research.

The exhibit will continue through December 31. Clearwater County has its own unique exhibit to view. The Idaho State Historical Museum is located at 610 N. Julia Davis Drive – Julia Davis Park, Boise. More information may be found by clicking on the link: Idaho at 150, at: http://history.idaho.gov. The museum’s phone number for general information is: (208) 334-2120.